Polygamists in Texas

[leherissierm]

Any one have any thoughts about everything going on in Texas? I have been reading alot about it and its starting to seem like the government is in the wrong...taking away children, religious discrimination. Do they or should they have the right to stop this religious sect? Of course, its wrong to force marriage or rape upon children, but if adults wants to have several wives and they say it is part of their religion, then shouldnt the govt grant them that right?

Just wanted to know what other people thought...thanks!

[collie]

Even though the original phone call is apparently a hoax, the state of Texas owes an obligation to these children to ensure they aren't being bred to marry under age. Bigamy I thought was illegal in the US so I don't understand how they get away with this bs in the first place. Most of the kids will go back, except the ones who were "married" under age. After that, I expect their DCF will be keeping a close watch on this group to ensure they are abiding by Texas law.

[rapuda]

The government shouldn't grant people the right to do something illegal under the protection of religion. If all you had to do was declare religious freedom, people could do whatever they wanted. You could commit a crime and declare it's allowed under your religion.
As far as marriage to a minor, how can an 18 year old man who gets a 17 year old girl pregnant, get arrested for statutory rape, but a 40 year old man is allowed to marry and impregnate a 16 year old? How many 16 year old girls want to get married and have sex with a 40 year old man? Most 16 year old girls look at men over 30 as old and disgusting. Are these girls given free choice, or are they forced? Isn't sex against someones will considered rape?
What happened in Texas is a tough situation, but if the state has reason to believe children are at risk, they have to take action.